Picky eaters sometimes require tricky parents in order to introduce new foods and enforce healthy eating habits.

Picky eating often occurs around the time children start feeding themselves—when they feel like they have control over what they put into their mouths. It may seem like a never-ending battle, but don’t stress. There are ways to get your picky eater to try new foods.

Tips for Managing Picky Eaters

Make It Fun
Use a cookie cutter to make apples and cucumbers fun shapes, make breakfast for dinner, or serve foods in a variety of different colors.

Try a New Texture
When kids don’t want to eat certain foods, it’s often because they don’t like the texture. If your child refuses to eat soft foods, try apple slices instead of applesauce or a baked potato instead of mashed potatoes.

Provide Options
Keep introducing new foods, even if your child has refused them before. Often, children need to be offered new foods several times before trying them.

Personalize the Utensils
If your child is happier eating off of a colored plate or using a special spoon, they may be open to eating what’s in front of them.

Serve it with Dip
Use healthy dipping sauces for a fun way to encourage kids to eat their fruits and vegetables.

Change the Scenery
Plan a backyard picnic or have a tea party. Making mealtime fun can encourage children to eat more.

Sneak in Some Stealth Veggies
Shred carrots into noodle dishes as a healthy snack, or add spinach to fruit smoothies for a nutrient boost in everyday foods.

Relax
Remember to encourage a positive mealtime experience for your child. If your child associates stress or negative emotions around trying new foods, they may be less open to them. Keep an optimistic attitude and your child might just surprise you.